SEATTLE STARTUPS, EMERGING COMPANIES AND VENTURE CAPITAL ATTORNEYS

Carney Badley Spellman’s startup and emerging company attorneys in Seattle partner with founders, entrepreneurs, and investors to help transform innovative ideas into durable, high-growth businesses. Whether you are a first-time founder, or a seasoned serial entrepreneur, we provide practical, business-minded legal guidance at every stage of growth. Clients who partner with us can expect experienced counsel, efficient execution, and a collaborative, team-based approach. We advise startups and emerging companies throughout the entire business life cycle, from formation and early financing through growth, strategic transactions, and exit, always with an eye toward anticipating challenges before they become obstacles.  

Our services include:

• Company formation and equity structure
• Financings, including convertible notes, SAFEs, and preferred stock offerings
• Stock options, stock awards, and other forms of equity compensation
• Corporate governance
• Federal and state securities laws compliance
• Licensing and commercial transactions, including software licenses, terms of service, distributor and supply agreements, and IP transactions
• Privacy policies and compliance
• Employee and independent contractor agreements
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Acqui-hire transactions
• Tax planning
• Cap table management
• Management and support during the due diligence process
• Formation of investment funds and special purpose entities

Our startup team brings together attorneys with diverse backgrounds and complementary experience. This team-oriented approach allows clients to work with lawyers who understand their technology, products, and business models, and who deliver well-rounded, practical solutions aligned with business objectives.

Many of our clients have graduated from renowned accelerator programs such as Y Combinator and Techstars. We represent startups and emerging companies across a wide range of industries, including:

• Software
• Artificial intelligence
• VR and AR
• Video games
• Internet of Things
• Fintech
• Mobile app development
• Wearable technology
• Web3 and blockchain
• Life sciences, biotech, medical devices
• E-commerce
• Cleantech
• Food and beverage
• Hospitality
• Cannabis
• Sustainable agriculture
• Social purpose companies
• Military Defense

In addition to representing startups and emerging companies, we regularly advise angel investors, venture capital funds, banks, and other sources of capital. This perspective gives us a comprehensive understanding of financing transactions and allows us to anticipate issues, streamline negotiations, and align founder and investor expectations.

From formation to exit, our startup and emerging company attorneys serve as long-term partners to founders navigating complex legal and business decisions. 
Let’s talk about how Carney’s Startup Team can support your next stage of growth.